Indiana State Flower and State Bird

Cardinal ~ Richmondena cardinalis
Only the summer tanager matches the male Cardinal in full red color, but the tanager lacks the pronounced crest which the Cardinal proudly displays. A black mask, a stout coral red bill, and dark red feet also distinguish the Cardinal from the tanager. So brilliant is his color that he was named Cardinal for the scarlet robes of a church dignitary. Both the males and the females remain together throughout the year, though in the early winter months the bond may be relaxed.

Peony ~ Paeonia cultivar
The red shoots of Peonies emerging from the ground have signaled spring for generations of flower lovers who look forward to the unforgettable fragrance that is the Peony's pride. Cited as the earliest known medicinal plant, the Peony's name perpetuates that of Apollo in his character of physician, for as Paeon he healed the wounds the gods received in the Trojan war. Thus, early doctors of medicine were known as paeoni.

From The Wildflowers of the 50 States U.S. stamps issued July 24, 1992:



Indiana Wildflower - Round-Lobed Hepatica

Art from the 50-stamp series, State Birds and Flowers,
issued April 14, 1982 simultaneously in all state capitals.